Watching TV just isn't what it used to be

Tuesday

Feb 19, 2013 at 1:00 PM

When asked to be a Nielsen TV viewing family recently, I first hesitated upon receiving the call. But research is something Iím always interested in, so I consented to receiving the information in the mail.Iím well aware of the criticism surrounding the Nielsen ratings, but given the chance to state my views†ó well, I canít pass that up†ó besides, itís good column fodder. We all complain about television programming from time to time, so why not make it count, I figured.According to Wikipedia, there is some public critique regarding accuracy and potential bias within Nielsenís rating system, including some concerns that the ratings system is rapidly becoming outdated due to new technology like smartphones, DVRs, tablet computers and Internet viewing. In view of this, Nielsen announced a plan to revamp its entire methodology to include all types of media viewing in its sample.I remember doing the diary some years ago and thinking it wasnít that time consuming. Now, the diary requires information about whether anyone living in the home uses a cell phone, has email, a DVRÖThereís the typical data collected on how many members of the household are in each of the age groups, how many TV sets the home has and other demographic data.Now, they also want to know if the TV is connected to a cable TV service, satellite dish and if the TV receives any channels that may be offered for extra monthly fees.Back when all we had to write down was NBC, CBS or ABC, it was easy. Good grief†ó now they want you attach a list of all the channels received. And while youíre at it, write in the channel number, station or channel name, and city for all the channels the set receives. Well, that could take all day, I muttered.Donít get me wrong†ó Iím not an avid TV watcher and I often complain about the lack of quality programming for families. I grow tired of the typical crime scene shows and tend to switch over to a PBS travel documentary or cooking show, where at least something can be learned. So, like my iPhone doesnít get used to its potential, the TV programming isnít something I get my moneyís worth in cable bills.I often lament about whatever happened to the fun shows we grew up on like "Happy Days," "Laverne and Shirley" and "The Cosby Show." Thatís why itís fun to have the Me TV channel that airs those old shows.To watch a comedy show nowadays with young children, you have to explain transsexuality and other topics once considered taboo for TV. There is more shock value and embarrassing humor that I donít care to deal with and will often opt for a good book instead.Thatís when the best part of the diary comes in handy. On the last page of the diary, in a nearly 7-inch wide by 2 1/2-inch space, thereís room to comment about TV in general. It says you can comment about local programming such as news and more. Also, you can list any favorite programs you were unable to watch.This is where I needed to attach something, I said to myself. But following the directions, I dutifully recorded as asked in the space provided, writing small and choosing words deliberately.Weíre always told we should take the opportunity to ďhave a voice.Ē So now, mine will be put in the mailbox and sent on its way. If my familyís viewing habits can make a difference somehow in the nature of what weíre getting, then I can be glad my vote counts!Nancy Hastings is a staff writer for the Hillsdale Daily News. She can be reached at nancy.hastings@hillsdale.net.†